Southampton City Council libraries launch blood pressure monitor scheme for residents

Southampton residents are encouraged to come forward and check their blood pressure as part of a new scheme Southampton City Council is running across its libraries as it works towards creating a healthier Southampton

Residents over the age of 18 with a valid library card can now borrow a blood pressure monitor free of charge for two weeks from any Southampton library. The scheme ensures blood pressure monitoring is easy and accessible for anyone in the comfort of their own home.

Dr Robin Poole, Consultant in Public Health at Southampton City Council, said: "High blood pressure often has no symptoms and if left untreated, can increase your risk of having a heart attack, stroke and kidney disease. With the right treatment, whether that’s taking medication or making everyday changes such as eating well, keeping active, drinking less alcohol or stopping smoking, high blood pressure can be prevented or controlled. We have designed the blood pressure kits in our Southampton libraries to include instructions on how to use the monitors, in addition to a recording sheet for taking daily readings which residents can then submit to their GP if their blood pressure is high.”

Councillor Marie Finn, Cabinet Member for Adults and Health, said: “It’s fantastic that we have this new scheme running in our Southampton libraries and I really encourage you to come forward and borrow a blood pressure monitor so that you can manage your risks and live healthier lives. We hope this scheme will help to make it easier for you to know your numbers and do speak to your GP if you need medical support.”

Residents can also come forward for a free NHS blood pressure check at any local participating pharmacy if they’re aged 40 or over and many GP practices have blood pressure checks available for their patients to use in their reception areas. To find out more about high blood pressure, visit the NHS website.